A small agricultural community known as the "Oasis on the Plains", Colby has a population of 5,244 primarily of German descent.
Colby caters to a traveling crowd with a number of small hotels, a charming convention center, and restaurants that serve mostly fast food. There's a bunch of interesting shops in the downtown area that sell both retail and discount items. It shouldn't be hard to find a bargain here. Kansas Country Store in Southwind Plaza has old-time wares that antique buffs would enjoy.
The arts come out to play at Colby Community College's Cultural Arts Center. Actors and musicians perform in front of a 538-person auditorium and serve as the main focus of the community's cultural society. The Center also houses an art gallery for traveling exhibits. Art lovers really need to check out the Prairie Museum of Art & History with its beautiful glass and crystal displays from Tiffany, Steuben, Wedgewood and many other coveted manufacturers.
Attending a rodeo show at the Thomas County Fairgrounds makes for a fun afternoon savoring the charm of mid-Western style entertainment. Antique buffs and bargain hunters will enjoy the occasional, good old fashioned auction held at the National Guard Armory, home of the 170th Maintenance unit.
Some points of interest include: Kansas' Biggest Barn, and Northwest Research Center.
Colby Community Building hosts the home games for the college's volleyball and basketball teams as well as the town's Recreational Department. And, it's the place to go for spectator sports in town. The gym here is open for public walking on weekday mornings. Afterwards, a dip in the pool provides a refreshing cool down.
Golfing fans can tee off at the Colby Country Club while disc golf and fishing are available at Villa High Park on Range Avenue. Young Memorial Park has facilities for soccer, baseball and softball games. And, boating on the lake at Fike Park is perfect for a lazy, summer afternoon. Fike Park also has volleyball and tennis courts available.
Colby is located on I-70 in the Sunflower State about 53 miles from the Colorado border.
